Pair: Chief Petty Officer B. I. Thomson, Royal Navy

South Atlantic 1982, with rosette (LRO (G) B I Thomson D134410T HMS Minerva) with named card box of issue; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 1st issue (RS B I Thomson D134410T RN) mounted as worn, good very fine and better (2) £500-£700

Barry Ian Thomson was born on the island of Malta around 1955. Joining the Royal Navy direct from school on 2 October 1973, he enjoyed a long career as Radio Operator, including a period as Leading Radio Operative aboard the frigate Minerva from 15 July 1980 to 31 October 1982. Deployed as part of ‘Bristol Group’, Minerva was heavily involved in escort and patrol duties during the Falklands War. On 1 June 1982 her radar detected an Argentinian C-130 and vectored a flight of patrolling Sea Harriers towards it; the enemy reconnaissance aircraft was intercepted and promptly shot down.

Returned to Devonport, Thomson enjoyed a long run of postings to Mercury, Seahawk, Raleigh and Drake. Discharged to pension on 12 December 1996, his character was noted as ‘exemplary’.